Non-Gaussian speed distributions: OMNI multisatellite data and simulations based on two temperature model

Abstract

The multi-satellite OMNI solar wind speed data are analyzed, and six distinct types of non-Gaussian probability distributions are investigated. These include the three and four peak probability distributions, bell-shaped probability distribution with nipple-like single peak, bimodal, kinky-flat-top, and bump-on-tail speed distributions. It is also found that cumulative probability distributions for these included the shock-like, sudden jumps, and linear trends toward the peak value of one. This work also studies temperature probability distributions for laser-solid coupling, by analyzing the simulation data for the two temperature model. It is very surprising to find that non-Gaussian temperature distributions resulting from laser–solid interaction match with those found in solar wind data. Therefore, it is concluded that high frequency electromagnetic radiation is a valid candidate for shaping non-Gaussian speed distributions in solar wind.